Christine Clark and her son, Devon Nelson, are considering their options after a PIAA appeal hearing ruled the 16-year-old is ineligible to play basketball at Monsignor Bonner & Archbishop Prendergast Catholic High School in Upper Darby this season, writes Aaron Carter for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

The administration at Upper Merion High School challenged Nelson’s transfer in November, alleging it was motivated by athletic reasons that violate PIAA rules.

Clark said that her son transferred schools due to her desire to buy a home and his desire to attend a Catholic school, as well as her increasing concern over the environment at Upper Merion.

She has now retained counsel and is planning to seek further remedies.

Last season, Nelson helped his old school win the Pioneer Athletic Conference Frontier Division championship. He was also a first-team All-PAC selection.

However, due to the ruling, he will now have to sit out a full calendar year at Bonner-Prendie from the date of his transfer.

“It’s just very upsetting for everybody involved,” said Friars coach Billy Cassidy.

Last week, Clark started an online petition titled “Let Devon play,” which has already gathered over 3,500 signatures, including many of Nelson’s former teammates at Upper Merion.

Read more about Devon Nelson and efforts to allow him to play in The Philadelphia Inquirer.